ATLANTA (AP) - The highly anticipated matchup between the Houston Rockets and the Atlanta Hawks, initially scheduled for Saturday, has been postponed due to a severe winter storm affecting the Atlanta region. The NBA made the decision to prioritize the safety of players, fans, and staff in light of hazardous icy conditions resulting from the inclement weather.
The league has indicated that a new date for the rescheduled game will be announced at a later time. Notably, the Rockets’ team flight had already arrived in Atlanta prior to the postponement announcement, highlighting the challenges faced by teams amid unpredictable weather patterns.
The storm, which unloaded a significant amount of snow and ice on the Atlanta area, led to widespread disruption. Roads in the region were expected to refreeze Saturday night, increasing the risks of travel for both residents and visitors alike. Consequently, power outages rose sharply as falling trees knocked down power lines, leaving over 110,000 customers without electricity predominantly in the Atlanta metro area.
On Friday, a separate incident involving a Delta Air Lines flight further emphasized the storm's impact in Atlanta. A jet heading to Minneapolis had to abort its takeoff due to an engine issue, resulting in injuries to four passengers. Although the incident occurred amid the significant weather situation, Delta officials could not confirm whether the problems were weather-related.
The commercial aircraft, a Boeing 757-300, was carrying a total of 201 individuals, including two pilots and five flight attendants. When the emergency unfolded, the passengers evacuated using inflatable slides and were subsequently transported back to the concourse. One passenger was taken to the hospital for treatment, while three others received assistance for minor injuries at the airport.
This series of events underscores the broader impact of the winter storm in the Atlanta area, which is recognized as one of the world's busiest travel hubs. Disruptions to flight schedules and travel plans have become commonplace in regions facing severe weather, posing challenges for airlines and travelers alike.
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